How To Create Your Dance Recital Program And Quotes To Use

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Dance recital programs serve as a lasting memory and treasured keepsake for your dancers, as well as their families and friends. Today, there are so many resources that make it fun and easy to create a beautiful dance recital program. Here we cover some of the best tips for creating your programs easily and share templates and beautiful quotes to kick-start your design.

people performing at a show

Where Can I Find Dance Recital Program Templates?

If you’ve never dabbled in graphic design, you may be wondering where to begin with your recital program. Luckily, a dance recital program template is all you need to get started!

First, think about the theme of your recital or overall season. It may be easiest to find a recital program template that plays into this theme.

Canva is a great resource for DIY design. Check out their dance recital program templates, which range from abstract designs to simple illustrations. Play with different options to find the perfect fit for your dance recital program. You can also use one of their many poster template designs for your dance recital program cover and pair it with simple text on the inside.

If you are searching for a one-stop-shop for both your design and printing needs, websites like Printing Center USA are a great option. Design your program with an easy-to-use online template and order printing directly through their website. Zazzle also has recital program templates you can customize and have printed and shipped, as well as Etsy.

What Should I Include In Our Dance Recital Programs?

Your dance recital programs should be a reflection of your studio! Get creative and pour your heart into this simple, yet important, little guide. Remember, your program doesn’t need to be lengthy. Five to eight pages is usually standard.

You may want to consider opening with a page that provides a few quick details about you and your studio. Include relevant information about your experience and why you opened your dance studio in the first place.

From there, you should prepare several important sections for family and friends to browse as they’re waiting for the performance to begin. Consider include the following.

1. Dance recital quotes

An inspirational quote about the art of dance is a great way to introduce your program. Consider one of these dance recital quotes for the cover or first page:

  1. “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.” – Martha Graham
  2. “To dance is to be out of yourself. Larger, more beautiful, more powerful…This is power, it is glory on earth and it is yours for the taking.” – Agnes De Mille
  3. “We should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
  4. “Dancing is creating a sculpture that is visible only for a moment.” – Erol Ozan
  5. “Dance is the poetic baring of the soul through motion.” – Scott Nilsson
  6. “Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance.” – Oprah Winfrey
  7. “People have asked me why I chose to be a dancer. I did not choose. I was chosen to be a dancer, and with that, you live all your life.” – Martha Graham
  8. “I see dance being used as communication between body and soul, to express what is too deep to find for words.” – Ruth St. Denis
  9. “Dance is an art that imprints on the soul. It is with you every moment, it expresses itself in everything you do.” – Shirley MacLaine

2. Setlist

Your setlist is an orderly look at the music and dance groups your recital will feature. Provide complete details, including the artist or composer and song title. This list should be in the order they will appear in the show.

If you’re planning on having a brief intermission, be sure to make a note of this.

3. Dancers

The recital wouldn’t be possible without the most important part: information about your dancers! Each participant should be named, but there are typically two ways you can do this.

You may want to simply create a page with an alphabetical list of every dancer featured in your recital or you can list which dancers are involved in each number. In this case, including the names of the dancers underneath each song in your setlist. If you have a smaller group, include photos or information about them.

4. Sponsor information

Sponsors are an important part of your recital. Perhaps a local catering company provided refreshments or your chairs were provided at a discount from a rental agency. If there are companies that helped your recital come together, make sure to include them in your program.

You can also add a photo of their logos or business cards to drive future business to them. It’s the best way to say “thank you” for their contribution.

Where Can I Print Our Recital Programs?

There are several ways to print your dance recital program. First, calculate how many copies you’ll need. If you sold admission tickets or required an RSVP, this should be relatively simple. However, you should always have at least a dozen extra on hand in case more attendees show up. If your recital isn’t a ticketed event, figure each dancer will have approximately four guests.

Once you’ve determined how many programs you need, look for local printing companies to help. These small businesses may be willing to give you a discount in exchange for a spot in your program as a sponsor. This can be a great way to save money.

If you aren’t able to track down any local businesses, FedEx Office and Office Depot both offer a variety of online printing services available for pick-up in person. As previously mentioned, some online design services also come with printing.

Best Practices for Creating a Dance Recital Program

Following is a set of best practices can streamline the process and result in a print-ready PDF that is sure to impress parents and students alike.

  • Choose the Right Format – Not all dance recitals are the same, so your program should reflect your unique event. Consider a full-page format for larger recitals or a more compact layout for smaller, intimate performances.

  • Use Templates – There are many free templates available for download online. These can save you time and ensure a professional look. Just double-check check they meet your needs before starting the design process.

  • Include Essential Information – Make sure to track and include all necessary details such as the order of performances, names of the dancers, and any special acknowledgments or messages, such as thank you’s to sponsors.

  • Incorporate Photos – Images bring life to your program. Include photos of your students in action or even candid shots from rehearsals. Remember to get permission from families before sharing their photos.

  • Proofread and Print – Always double-check your program for any errors before sending it to print. It’s also important to test print a copy to ensure it looks as expected.

  • Marketing and Advertising – Your program is not only an informational guide but also a great marketing tool. Consider selling advertising space to local businesses or including a link to your dance studio’s website.

  • Digital Sharing – In addition to printed copies, create a digital version of your program. This can be easily shared on your site or sent via email, allowing even those who can’t attend to feel connected.

  • Passion – Lastly, let your passion for dance shine through in your program. This is a celebration of your students’ hard work, so make sure it reflects that.

Creating a dance recital program is not just about providing information. It’s also an opportunity for branding, marketing, and showcasing the talent and dedication of your students. By following these tips, you can create a program that is both functional and memorable.

Find Help During Dance Recital Season

A dance recital is an important milestone for your students. You’ll be pouring your time and resources into the final details to ensure each and every performance is special.

 

Dance studio software can help with the administrative tasks of recital management, making it easier for you to focus on your students. Studio Director’s automated email services can send reminders to students and parents as the night approaches. Costume management is seamless, allowing you to pair costumes with dance groups for easy online ordering and inventory management.

From registration to marketing (and so much more!), Studio Director makes the business of running your studio easier. We save you time and money, so you can focus on your passion.

If you’d like to learn more about our dance studio software, try a 15-day free trial today!

 

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